Winter Gear

I am pleased to share my second article featured on Wisconsin Parent. In it, you will find  helpful tips on choosing the right winter gear for your children to keep them safe during outdoor activities this season. Fitting that this story was published on the first real snowy day this year!

The Misery of E-mail

Now, before I get deep into the message of this post, I want to make it clear that I depend on e-mail just as much as the next guy. With a mostly introverted personality, e-mail has been a saving grace in many personal and business encounters. I'd much rather communicate an issue or conflict through e-mail, if appropriate, than have to deal with someone face to face.

But my intent with the mindfulness sections of this blog ("The Joy of ___" and "The Misery of ___") is to reflect on the things I can change to make my life more mindful and meaningful. I think a great place to start is e-mail.

The Play's the Thing (Act I)

I took a bit of a detour from my writing career after college when I branched off to teach  preschool. And I wouldn't take it back for a second! Working with children and the people who work with them for the past 12 years has added unspeakable value to my life and my awareness as a mom and a person.

The Joy of Leaf Raking

This past weekend we saw most the leaves come off our trees in one fell swoop. On Monday, after sending the kids off to school, every time I looked out the window I would consider going out to rake. But it was windy, and I just couldn't get myself motivated.

The Joy of the Street Sweeper

This morning I stopped to watch the street sweeper come down our street and I was instantly transported back to childhood. One of my favorite memories was when the street sweeper would be near...(you can always hear it before you see it) and I would instantly run to the living room window to stand still and watch while it slowly sauntered by.

Miley Cyrus Parenting

A few weekends ago, I was watching SNL. Miley Cyrus was hosting. I spent much of the show shaking my head in dismay and having an internal "mom"ologue that went from "What on Earth is she wearing?" to "Thank goodness I have boys!"

The Joy of Dishwashing

Here it is--the one place where I spend A LOT of my time during the day, especially after dinner. But, before you feel all sorry for me and tell me I should make my husband do the dishes more often, let me tell you two things.